(also referred to as ...) IBD, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Universal Ulcerative Colitis
Description Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, concerns serious inflammations of the bowel and should not be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBD can be divided into two distinct groups: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Crohn's Disease Crohn's disease is characterized by a chronic inflammation that can occur anywhere along the intestinal tract, from the mouth to the rectum. It is seen most frequently in the lower intestinal tract, the ileum (ileitis), or the ileum and colon (ileo colitis). The healing of the intestinal tract leads to scaring that narrows the passageway. Crohn's disease typically begins between the ages of thirteen to forty, while more and more cases are being reported amongst younger children. It is estimated that for every 100,000 people, anywhere from 20 to 40 individuals suffer from Crohn's disease. Ulcerative Colitis Ulcerative colitis can attack any or all parts of the large bowel or colon. Cases can range from relatively mild to severe. It is a chronic disorder in which the mucous membranes lining the colon become inflamed and develop ulcers, leading to several aggravations. If the whole colon is involved, the disease is called universal ulcerative colitis. Occurrences of ulcerative colitis are slightly higher than Crohn's disease: for every 100,000 people, approximately 70 to 150 individuals suffer from the disease.
Symptoms and Signs: Crohn's Disease Symptoms of Crohn's disease include chronic or intermittent bouts of diarrhea, pain in the abdominal area (especially in the lower right side), flatulence, fever, headaches, nausea, malabsorption, malnutrition, loss of appetite and energy, and weight loss. Crohn's disease is sometimes misdiagnosed as appendicitis, as the pain often derives from the same location. Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include bloody diarrhea, cramps in the lower abdomen, and occasionally hard stools. Rectal examination may show fissures, hemorrhoids, fistulas, and abscesses. In either of the two disorders, the sufferer of IBD may show a fear or disgust of food in general, as the pain does not make eating an enjoyable endeavour (though it is unclear as to how diet is related to IBD).
Causes: Although many theories about the origins of IBD have been presented, the causes of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are unknown. Some theories suggest that certain people have a genetic predisposition to IBD. IBD is two to four times more likely to occur in Caucasians than in non-Caucasians, and four times more common in Jews than in non-Jews. As well, in fifteen to forty percent of all cases, multiple family members suffer from Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. The search for genetic markers of IBD, as of yet, has been unsuccessful. Many microorganisms, such as rotavirus, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and mycobacteria have been identified as potential causes of IBD (although this is quite a debated topic). Antibiotic exposure is also being linked to Crohn's disease, as prior to the 1950s, the disease was only found in isolated groups and had a strong genetic component. The increase in antibiotic use over the decades parallels the growth in the number of cases of Crohn's disease. In fact, incidences of Crohn's disease are very high in people who are treated early, and often, with antibiotics. This may be the result of antibiotics that are not strong enough to kill the target organism. In such cases, the organisms can respond by growing in number and in strength -- increasing the chances of toxicity within the intestines. Dietary factors and food allergies are also possible causes of IBD. Food is a major determinant in the intestinal environment. Incidences of Crohn's disease are higher in those who consume a Western diet: high in saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and sugar. Studies show that food allergies may play an important role in the development of IBD. Although a direct link has not been found, Crohn's disease patients tend to be heavier smokers than people without the disorder. Stress has also been linked to IBD.
What to Expect: Both diseases are chronic, often remaining with sufferers for a lifetime. For some, the disease is manageable and requires little treatment. For others, IBD is a life-threatening disorder. Serious increase in disease activity may necessitate emergency medical attention and periods of hospitalization. Serious problems may involve intolerable pain or constant, loose, bloody stools. In some cases, surgery must be performed to reassign the digestive tract. Weight loss is prevalent in sixty-five to seventy-five percent of all IBD patients. Not only does the pain associated with eating cause a decrease in food intake, but the nutrients consumed are not assimilated properly by your body. Weight loss is especially prevalent in people who have extensive damage to the small intestine and in people who have had surgical resection of segments of the small intestine. Arthritis is the most common complication of IBD. Approximately 25% of people with IBD develop arthritis -- the most frequent being peripheral arthritis, affecting the knees, ankles and wrists. About 15% of people with IBD suffer from skin lesions while 3 to 7% suffer from some type of liver disease (sclerosing cholangitis, chronic active hepatitis, cirrhosis...). Chances of acquiring colon cancer are higher amongst IBD sufferers. Children often fail to mature properly as a result of IBD. 75% of children with Crohn's disease experience growth failure, with 25% of children with ulcerative colitis fail to grow normally.
Remedies
Foods Omega-3 fatty acids combat the inflammatory compounds that cause intestinal cramping and pain. Increase your consumption of cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and halibut, which are all good sources of longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids. At the same time, reduce or preferably eliminate your consumption of meats and dairy products. These substances promote inflammation. Flaxseed oil is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Take one tablespoon of flaxseed oil every day Try to avoid both caffeine and alcohol. One cup of coffee (40 to 50 milligrams of caffeine) may be enough to stimulate a bowel movement. People with IBD suffer from too many bowel movements as is, and caffeine, whether in coffee or in soft drinks, will not be helpful. Alcohol can interfere with digestive enzymes and can further aggravate IBD. Consuming more than the occasional glass of wine is not recommended. A high fibre diet is a healthy one. Incorporate larger quantities of fresh fruits, vegetables and grains while avoiding refined or sugary foods. For those with chronic diarrhea and abdominal cramps, too many fruits and vegetables should be avoided. However, the knowledge of dietary factors of IBD is ambiguous at best. Many health care providers and nutritionists suggest, with limitation, that people with IBD should eat "whatever makes them feel best". It is difficult to predict which foods will cause discomfort, and, over time, people can properly gauge their own food tolerances. Drink plenty of fluids to cleanse your system and dilute urine. People with IBD often suffer from kidney stones as a result of poor absorption of fatty acids. Sufficient hydration can help prevent kidney stones. Diarrhea also causes dehydration, making fluids that much more important. Drink eight 8 ounce glasses daily. If you are not accustomed to drinking this quantity of water, start with 4 glasses daily and work your way up over the course of a week. Food Supplements Psyllium seed husk helps keep the colon walls clean. You may experience bloating. Herbs Alfalfa stimulates healing by supplying vitamin K and chlorophyll. Vitamin K deficiency has been linked to digestive disorders. Aloe Vera softens stools and helps to heal the digestive tract. Drink 1/2 cup aloe vera juice three times daily. Other herbs that support digestion include: burdock root, echinacea, fenugreek, goldenseal (do not take if you are pregnant), licorice (do not take if you have a history of high bloodpressure), marshmallow root, pau d'arco, enteric-coated peppermint, red clover, rose hips, silymarin, slippery elm, and yerba maté. Chamomile, dandelion, feverfew, papaya and yarrow extract are all helpful in treating ulcerative colitis. Wild Indigo is effective for gastrointestinal disorders. Discuss these options with your herbalist, naturopath, or other health practitioner.> /P> Lifestyle Stress is related to IBD. Get regular exercise (which is healthy with or without IBD) and perform relaxation exercises, such as breathing, meditation, or whatever feels best for you. Recent studies by the National Cooperative Crohn's Disease Study (NCCDS), using a placebo, found that many patients who completed the study went into clinical remission for long periods of time. Your mind can have a powerful influences on wellness and recovery. Minerals Zinc promotes healing and supports the immune system. Take 50mg daily.
Miscellaneous Duodenal glandular helps heal gastrointestinal ulcers. Discuss this option with your naturopath or other health practitioner. Liver extract injections may prove helpful. You must discuss this option with your naturopath or other health practitioner. N-Acetylglucosamine helps protect the intestinal lining. Take as directed. Therapies, Healing Aids, and More Allergy testing should be performed to indicate sensitive foods. These foods should be eliminated from the diet. Common food allergies include cow's milk, wheat, and soy. Remember that the foods we are the most allergic to are also the ones we most crave and most frequently consume. Skin tests or positive IgE RAST testing can help isolate specific allergens. Vitamins Bromelain helps break down protein and promote healthy digestion. Take as directed. Folic acid promotes proper cell growth. Take 200mcg daily Vitamin B complex helps prevent anemia. Take 50mg 3 times daily. You may require injections of this vitamin. You must consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner on this option. Vitamin B12 promotes digestion and also helps prevent anemia. Take 200mcg daily. You may require injections of this vitamin. You must consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner on this option. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids boosts immune function and prevents inflammation. Take 1,000mg 3 times daily. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and scavenges the body for free radicals. Take 800 IU daily. Vitamin K deficiency is linked to digestive disorders and is essential for the health of your colon. Take 100mcg daily. A multivitamin and mineral complex may be very helpful. IBD causes malabsorption in many people and can result in nutrient deficiency and electrolyte imbalance.
Actions and Remedy Listings
For More Information ... Janowitz. Henry, D. Good Food For Bad Stomachs. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997.
See also Digestive Problems
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